
Car.1: Ching Jin Wei (driver), Shevin Teoh (navigator), and Ching Neng Bin.

Car.2: Ching Jin Yuan (driver), Jessie Lee (navigator), Catherine Oon and child Crystabelle Ching (4yo).
A 3-day/2-night stay at Punapa Gunung Silipat Campsite in Betong, Thailand, brings joy to the family from 27th to 29th July 2025. Family outings are a terrific opportunity to build bonds, create lasting memories, and have fun together. Whether you plan a hike, a trip to the beach or a picnic in the park, the benefits of family activities are numerous. So, this Punapa Camping trip was planned as a family outdoor adventure to reap the multiple benefits of spending quality time with loved ones.
Day 1 (27-07-2025) Depart from Butterworth at 08.30 am for Betong, Thailand.
Starting in Butterworth, 7 of us drove two cars 102 kilometres to Betong. After lunch at the well-known Betong Chicken Rice shop, we went to Kasong Wholesale to buy camping food supplies. From Betong, the Punapa Campsite was another 25 kilometres away.
On the road to Betong, we stopped at Pengkalan Hulu to fill up our petrol tank.
At AZ Thai to purchase our 9-day Thai car insurance for RM30.00 per car here.
We met many Malaysian bikers here who were also getting Thai insurance.
Crystabelle Ching and Grandpa admiring the big bikes.
We met many Malaysian bikers here who were also getting Thai insurance.
At the Malaysia's immigration department.
At the drive-through Malaysia's immigration office.
At the Thailand's Immigration Department.
The Thai Immigration passport control fee is RM2 per person.
At Thailand's Immigration Office for vehicle clearance paperwork. Fill out 2 copies of TM2 form for vehicle details and 2 copies of TM3 form for passengers.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card to be submitted 3 days before departure. For submission we use Touch'nGo platform.
2 copies of TM2 form for vehicle details entering Thailand.
2 copies of TM3 for passenger list entering by own vehicle.
The Thailand Customs Declaration Form is required before entering; it costs RM5 per automobile and must be returned upon departure. Failure to return this form will result in a daily fee of 1000THB. This form is issued by them.
Waiting area for cars and passengers after passing through Thailand's Immigration Office.
Betong is Thailand's southernmost town popular with Malaysian tourists on the border.
Betong's economy is driven primarily by tourism, particularly sex tourism.
Betong clock tower in the central area, opposite the largest mailbox and a short walk to the tunnel.
At Betong Chicken Rice shop for lunch.
At Betong Chicken Rice shop for lunch.
At Betong Chicken Rice shop for lunch.
At Kasong Wholesale to buy camping grocery.
Crystabelle Ching waiting at Betong Kasong Wholesale.
At Kasong Wholesale to buy camping grocery.
At Jaijai Coffee Bakery 仔仔 for some Thai desserts.
At Jaijai Coffee Bakery 仔仔 for some Thai desserts.
At Jaijai Coffee Bakery 仔仔 for some Thai desserts.
At Jaijai Coffee Bakery 仔仔 for some Thai desserts.
At Jaijai Coffee Bakery 仔仔 for some Thai desserts.
Last purchase of camping grocery at Betong Big C-Mini Mart.
The 3km mountain road up to Punapa Campsite located on Betong North Route 410, 20km from Betong.
The 3km mountain road up to Punapa Campsite located on Betong North Route 410, 20km from Betong.
On the 3km winding mountain road to Punapa Campsite.
On the 3km winding mountain road to Punapa Campsite.
The 3km winding mountain road leading to the campsite is lined with Punapa signs.
Crystabelle Ching slept on the 25-km mountain drive from Betong to Punapa Campsite.
The 3km winding mountain road leading to the campsite is lined with Punapa signs.
On the 3km winding mountain road to Punapa Campsite.
On the 3km winding mountain road to Punapa Campsite.
After driving for 30 minutes from Betong, we arrived at Punapa Campsite.
After driving for 30 minutes from Betong, we arrived at Punapa Campsite.
After driving for 30 minutes from Betong, we arrived at Punapa Campsite.
Punapa Campsite is a camping destination where tourists can pitch their tents for a small fee, enjoy barbecues, and take in the lovely nighttime ambience without getting bored. In the morning, a beautiful sea of mist meets you just outside your lodging, providing an enjoyable experience. Located at the foot of Gunung Silipat, guests can also hike to the mountain's summit.
Punapa Campsite's administrative building and dining hall.
Parking area at Punapa Campsite.
I am at Punapa Campsite, around 25 km from Betong.
Punapa Campsite is situated at the base of Gunung Silipat mountain. We are on the east side, so we can experience the sunrise and sea fog every day right here.
Punapa Campsite is situated at the base of Gunung Silipat mountain.
At Punapa Campsite in Betong, we have three tents for 7 people.
At Punapa Campsite in Betong, we have three tents for 7 people.
Jessie is hunting for Crystabelle Ching, who is running around enjoying herself.
Crystabelle Ching is running about and having fun at Punapa Campsite.

Crystabelle Ching is running about looking for grandma at Punapa Campsite.

At Punapa Campsite in Betong, we have three tents for 7 people.

Beautiful 2-man tents in Punapa Campsite in Betong.

The lovely 2-person tents at Punapa Campsite.

The lovely 2-person tents at Punapa Campsite.

The lovely 2-person tents at Punapa Campsite. Crystabelle Ching is still sleeping.The lovely 2-person tents at Punapa Campsite.

Setting out the fly sheet for cooking and dining at Punapa Campsite.

Setting out the fly sheet for cooking and dining at Punapa Campsite.

Setting out the table for cooking and dining at Punapa Campsite.
Setting out the table for cooking and dining at Punapa Campsite.

Setting out the table for cooking and dining at Punapa Campsite.
Setting out the table for cooking and dining at Punapa Campsite.
Ching Neng Bin proudly displays the Penang Adventure Club banner, which he co-founded in 1975 with Mr. Hoon Joong High and Mr. M. Pasupathy (RIP). The Club was founded 50 years ago and remains strong to this day.
The completed fly sheet with a table and chairs at Punapa Campsite.

Sitting under the fly sheet at Punapa Campsite, with a view of tents in front of me.

Ching Neng Bin shows off the durians bought on the way to Punapa Campsite.

Ching Neng Bin and Shevin Teoh hold more durians bought for supper at Punapa Campsite.

Crystabelle Ching is running around and having fun with the bubble gun.
Crystabelle Ching is running around and having fun with the bubble gun.

Punapa Campsite has a total of seventeen 2-person tents.

This Honolulu Creeper flower attracts a lot of honey bees at Punapa Campsite.
Punapa Campsite has very clean restrooms and bathrooms that use piped water.
This way to Gunung Silipat. The path up is next to the toilet at Punapa Campsite.
This way to Gunung Silipat. The path up is next to the toilet at Punapa Campsite.
A view of Gunung Silipat next to the toilet at Punapa Campsite.
Crystabelle Ching stands by a fruiting durian tree at Punapa Campsite.
These are huge Thai 'Chani' durians in Punapa Campsite.
Crystabelle Ching stands by a fruiting jack-fruit tree at Punapa Campsite.
The jack-fruits at the Punapa Campsite.
The jack-fruits at the Punapa Campsite.
Crystabelle Ching stands among the fruit trees at Punapa Campsite.
Ching Neng Bin stands under an avocado tree at Punapa Campsite.
Ching Neng Bin holds an avocado fruit at Punapa Campsite.
The avocado fruits at Punapa Campsite.
The duku langsat fruits at Punapa Campsite.
The buah petai flowers at Punapa Campsite.
Day 1 (27-07-2025) Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
Ching Neng Bin, an ex-rotarian from Sitiawan, is happy to meet with Betong Rotarian Weerasak Ruangthaweep, who owns Punapa Campsite with his wife, Napaporn.
Our Punapa Campsite dinner is pre-arranged with Ms Napaporn, also the owner.
Our Punapa Campsite dinner is pre-arranged with Ms Napaporn, also the owner.
We had Mookata (Thai BBQ and hotpot) at Punapa Campsite.
Our Punapa Campsite dinner is pre-arranged with Ms Napaporn, also the owner.
The two enormous board at Punapa Campsite is completely loaded with badges and stickers, as well as writings and remarks by visiting campers.
The two enormous board at Punapa Campsite is completely loaded with badges and stickers.
Welcome to the Punapa Campsite for dinner.
Welcome to the Punapa Campsite for dinner.
Welcome to the Punapa Campsite for dinner.
We had Mookata (Thai BBQ and hotpot) at Punapa Campsite.
We had Mookata (Thai BBQ and hotpot) at Punapa Campsite.
Dinner at Punapa Campsite included a huge salt-crusted grilled fish.
We had Mookata (Thai BBQ and hotpot) at Punapa Campsite.
We had Mookata (Thai BBQ and hotpot) at Punapa Campsite.
We had Mookata (Thai BBQ and hotpot) at Punapa Campsite.
We had enough food for dinner at Punapa Campsite.
Ching Neng Bin and Catherine are thankful to Ms Napaporn for arranging dinner at Punapa Campsite.
Ching Jin Yuan, Jessie and Crystabelle are thankful to Ms Napaporn for arranging dinner at Campsite.
Ching Jin Wei and Shevin are thankful to Ms Napaporn for arranging dinner at Punapa Campsite.
Punapa Campsite's security dog is a pitbull who is now sleeping.
Day 1 (27-07-2025) Family Camping Fellowship Night at Betong Punapa Campsite.

This is the greatest place for a family camping fellowship night with lanterns under a fly sheet at Punapa Campsite, and with plenty of Thai beers and Thai durian for supper.
One of the best parts of camping is the food and sharing stories.
The ideal family camping activities include sitting around a table sharing stories, and eating junk food.
The ideal family camping activities include sitting around a table sharing stories, and eating junk food.
Everyone is waiting to eat durian for supper at Punapa Campsite.
Everyone is waiting to eat durian for supper at Punapa Campsite.
Everyone is waiting to eat durian for supper at Punapa Campsite.
Everyone is waiting to eat durian for supper at Punapa Campsite.
Ching Neng Bin had to use a spoon to open the durian.
At the campsite, we had some delicious durian for supper.
At the campsite, we had some delicious durian for supper.

It is bedtime, and everyone heads to the bathroom to brush their teeth.

It is time for bed, and Crystabelle Ching wishes everyone a good night.

It is time for bed, and Crystabelle Ching wishes everyone a good night.

Back at our tents in Punapa Campsite.
Day 2 (28-07-2025) Hiking up Gunung Silipat at Punapa Campsite.
Greetings from the summit of Gunung Silipat (607m), Betong, Thailand. The Gunung Silipat Viewpoint is a well-kept secret in Yala's Betong District, deep in the unspoiled countryside. Spend the night at the base-camp, Punapa Campsite, before ascending uphill for 40 minutes to Gunung Silipat. Despite its modest elevation of 607 metres above sea level, Gunung Silipat (Malay for "triangular rock mountain") provides surprisingly stunning panoramic vistas. As the clock nears 6 a.m., you will find yourself standing above an ethereal sea of clouds, watching the sun's steady ascent transform the landscape and paint the sky over Thailand's southernmost district with a mesmerising palette of colours. At the summit, a bald peak offers an enjoyable, breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the surrounding area. The Gunung Silipat Hiking Trail Map.
Woke up at about 4.30 a.m. local time and began trekking at 5.15 a.m. At the starting track next to the toilet, I came across five other trackers. We make friends and then proceed to walk in the dark. The first 50 meters were on a flat dirt trail, followed by a sharp climb all the way up to Gunung Silipat's summit (607m).
The steep trek to the peak of Gunung Silipat's summit.
The ascent to Gunung Silipat's summit is steep.

As the clock approaches 6 a.m. I was already standing above an ethereal sea of clouds, watching the sun's slow ascension transform the landscape and paint the sky above Thailand's southernmost district with a stunning pallet of colors.

Ching Neng Bin on the summit of Gunung Silipat, standing over an exquisite sea of clouds.

Ching Neng Bin on the summit of Gunung Silipat, standing over an exquisite sea of clouds.

Ching Neng Bin on the summit of Gunung Silipat, standing over an exquisite sea of clouds.

Ching Neng Bin stood on the summit of Gunung Silipat, anticipating to see the first rays of daybreak.

Ching Neng Bin was overjoyed to be commemorating the Club's 50th anniversary at the peak of Gunung Silipat. He proudly flies the Penang Adventure Club banner, which he co-founded in 1975 with Mr. Hoon Joong High and Mr. M. Pasupathy (RIP). At the summit, a bald peak provides an enjoyable and stunning 360-degree view of the surroundings.
From the summit at dawn, campers often witness spectacular cloud carpets - a swirling sea of mist that envelops the campsite below and reveals panoramic views all around. On clear mornings, light may begin wrapping the hills as early as 5:45–6:15 AM, though participants typically start hiking around 5 AM from the campsite to catch the sunrise.
Ching Neng Bin with hikers on the summit of Gunung Silipat, waiting for the first rays of dawn.

Ching Neng Bin with a hiker on the summit of Gunung Silipat, waiting for the first rays of dawn.

Ching Neng Bin with a hiker on the summit of Gunung Silipat, waiting for the first rays of dawn.

At Gunung Silipat summit, all hikers gather for a stunning group photo with Ching Neng Bin.
The moment we have been waiting for: the breathtaking vista of the sun rising over Gunung Silipat and the sea of clouds below.
The stunning view of the sun rising above Gunung Silipat and the sea of clouds below.
The spectacular view of the sun rising above Gunung Silipat and the sea of clouds below.
Before tracking down, a tour operator for other group prepared breakfast for their hikers.
While climbing down Gunung Silipat, the view of Punapa Campsite, the sea
of clouds, and the valley below was equally breathtaking.
While climbing down Gunung Silipat, the view of Punapa Campsite, the sea
of clouds, and the valley below was equally breathtaking.
While climbing down Gunung Silipat, the view of Punapa Campsite, the sea
of clouds, and the valley below was equally breathtaking.
While climbing down Gunung Silipat, the view of Punapa Campsite, the sea of clouds, and the valley below was equally breathtaking.
There are also many late hikers trekking up Gunung Silipat.
There are also many late hikers trekking up Gunung Silipat.
There are also many late hikers trekking up Gunung Silipat.
There are also many late hikers trekking up Gunung Silipat.
The final glimpse of Punapa Campsite and the sea of clouds below, before we enter the forest and lose sight of the valley.
The final glimpse of Punapa Campsite and the sea of clouds below, before we enter the forest and lose sight of the valley.
Day 2 (28-07-2025) Sunrise View at Punapa Campsite.
Ms. Napaporn, the campsite's manager, came to our tents at 5.45 a.m. to wake up the rest of the family to witness the rising sun and the sea of clouds at Punapa campground. The sunrise at Punapa Campsite was stunning as always, and it was just as good as looking from the summit of Gunung Silipat. Everyone was delighted to snap photographs.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite is easily accessible by car and is situated on a hillside near Gunung Silipat (elevation 607m). This eliminates the need to hike great distances before sunrise.
Punapa campground's views of the sunrise and the sea of clouds were as breathtaking as ever.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Catherine and Napaporn, the camp manager.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: A family photo that will last forever.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: A family photo that will last forever.

A memorable family shot taken at sunrise in Punapa Campsite.

Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Catherine and Napaporn, the camp manager.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Catherine and Napaporn, the camp manager.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Jessie Lee and Ching Jin Yuan.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Shevin Teoh and Ching Jin Wei.
A memorable family shot taken at sunrise in Punapa Campsite.
Punapa campground's views of the sunrise and the sea of clouds were as breathtaking as ever.
Catherine and the camp manager, Napaporn, enjoy the sunrise at Punapa Campsite.
Punapa campground's views of the sunrise and the sea of clouds were as breathtaking as ever.
Punapa campground's views of the sunrise and the sea of clouds were as breathtaking as ever.
Punapa campground's views of the sunrise and the sea of clouds were as breathtaking as ever.
Catherine and Napaporn, the campsite manager, enjoy the sunrise and sea of clouds at Punapa Campsite.
Catherine and Napaporn, the campsite manager, enjoy the sunrise and sea of clouds at Punapa Campsite.

Another memorable family shot taken at sunrise in Punapa Campsite.

Another memorable family shot taken at sunrise in Punapa Campsite.

Another memorable family shot taken at sunrise in Punapa Campsite.
Day 2 (28-07-2025) Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping Breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping at Punapa Campsite.
Family Camping at Punapa Campsite.
Crystabelle Ching slept soundly in the tent for the first time.
Crystabelle Ching enjoyed her first night of sleep in the tent.
Interior view of our tent for Ching Jin Yuan, Jessie + Crystabelle Ching.
Interior view of our tent for Ching Jin Wei and Shevin Teoh.
Family members look great after a night in the tents and the stunning sunrise view in the morning.
Day 2 (28-07-2025) Family Lunch at JTP Cafe River Campsite, Betong.

On our second day at Punapa Campsite, we traveled to Betong and had lunch at the JTP Cafe River Campsite. We would like to mention that the JTP Cafe employs lovely employees and provides excellent services. Customers come here to enjoy the great coffee and tea, but most importantly, the amazing meals. The nearby river adds to the Cafe's aquatic feel.
Our lunch at the JTP Cafe River Campsite in Betong.
We need to cross a metal bridge to get to JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Local children play in the river beneath the bridge.
We need to cross a metal bridge to get to JTP Cafe River Campsite.

We need to cross a metal bridge to get to JTP Cafe River Campsite.
The nearby river adds to the Cafe's aquatic feel.
The nearby river adds to the Cafe's aquatic feel.
Crystabelle Ching tries to catch some fish in the fish pond.
Crystabelle Ching tries to catch some fish in the fish pond.
Crystabelle Ching tries to catch some fish in the fish pond.
The camping area of JTP Cafe River Campsite.
A walk along the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
A walk along the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Coconut water for Catherine.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy hot tea at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Enjoy delicious meals at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Relaxing after a fantastic meal at JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Crystabelle Ching had some fun at JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Crystabelle Ching had some fun in the water at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Ching Jin Wei and Shevin Teoh at JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Crystabelle Ching had some fun in the water at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Relaxing after a fantastic meal at the JTP Cafe River Campsite.
Day 2 (28-07-2025) A Family Drive Around Betong Town.
A drive around the Betong Municipal Park, we stopped at this gorgeous hand sculpture created from tiny metal hearts. The view through the hands is of the Betong Town cityscape below.
A drive around the Betong Municipal Park, we stopped at this gorgeous hand sculpture created from tiny metal hearts.
The view through the hands sculpture is of the Betong Town cityscape below.
The view through the hands sculpture is of the Betong Town cityscape below.
We then dropped by Bualoy Kuhn Aon 219 Betong for dessert.
We then dropped by Bualoy Kuhn Aon 219 Betong for dessert.
We then dropped by Bualoy Kuhn Aon 219 Betong for dessert.
We next moved on to the Piyamit Tunnel, stopping at the hot spring to buy durian.
Piyamit Tunnels, which connect Malaysia and Thailand, were used as a haven by Malaysian Communists who fled to Thailand after WWII.
Stopping by at the hot spring to buy durian.
Stopping by at the hot spring to buy durian.
Back at Punapa Campsite, we took more family shots to treasure.
Car.1: Ching Jin Wei (driver), Shevin Teoh (navigator), and Ching Neng Bin.
Car.2: Ching Jin Yuan (driver), Jessie Lee (navigator), Catherine Oon and child Crystabelle Ching (4yo).
Back at Punapa Campsite, we took more family shots to treasure.
Back at Punapa Campsite, we took more family shots to treasure.
Back at Punapa Campsite, we took more family shots to treasure.
Catherine Oon and Ching Neng Bin at Punapa Campsite.
Punapa Campsite's guard dog has just left for a walk.
Day 2 (28-07-2025) Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong. Ching Jin Yuan and Jin Wei never cook at home, but do so while camping. Wow, what a transformation.
Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
Ching Jin Yuan and Jin Wei never cook at home, but do so while camping. Wow, what a transformation.
Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
Family Camping Dinner at Punapa Campsite, Betong.

Again, we bought durian in town for supper at Punapa Campsite.

Again, we bought durian in town for supper at Punapa Campsite.

Very nice durians for supper at Punapa Campsite.
Day 3 (29-07-2025) Sunrise at Punapa Campsite, Betong.
This is our final day at Punapa Campsite, and we still get up early to watch the sunrise over the sea of clouds before returning to Malaysia.
We never tire of seeing the daybreak and the rolling sea of clouds, with their stunning panoramas.
We never tire of seeing the daybreak and the rolling sea of clouds, with their stunning panoramas.
We never tire of seeing the daybreak and the rolling sea of clouds, with their stunning panoramas.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Catherine and Napaporn, the camp manager.
Good morning, everyone at Punapa Campsite.
Good morning, everyone at Punapa Campsite.
Good morning, everyone at Punapa Campsite.
Good morning, everyone at Punapa Campsite.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Catherine and Napaporn, the camp manager.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Catherine and Napaporn, the camp manager.
Sunrise at Punapa Campsite: Catherine and Napaporn, the camp manager.
Good morning Crystabelle Ching.
Family breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
Family breakfast at Punapa Campsite.
After breakfast at Punapa Campsite, the family relaxes.
After breakfast at Punapa Campsite, the family relaxes.
After breakfast at Punapa Campsite, the family relaxes.
Crystabelle Ching shouted, "Look at my chocolate mouth."
Ching Jin Wei attempted to complete his office orders for packing.
Ching Jin Wei attempted to complete his office orders for packing.
Packing our belongings in the tent at Punapa Campsite.
Taking down the fly sheet at Punapa Campsite.
We are loading our bags into the car at Punapa Campsite.
Ching Neng Bin saying goodbye to Kajorn Ruangthaweep at Punapa Campsite.
Goodbye to Punapa Campsite, and we hope to return soon.
Taking the 16km road to Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall.
Day 3 (29-07-2025) Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong.
The car park at Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong.
We walk 300 metres from the parking area to the Waterfall via a concrete walkway.
We walk 300 metres from the parking area to the Waterfall via a concrete walkway.
We walk about 300 metres from the parking area to the Waterfall via a concrete walkway.
We walk about 300 metres from the parking area to the Waterfall via a concrete walkway.
We walk about 300 metres from the parking area to the Waterfall via a concrete walkway.
The Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall has 5 tiers and drops over a cliff that is over 30m high.
The wooden bridge across the Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
The Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
The Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
The Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
The waterfall has 5 tiers and drops over a cliff that is over 30 metres high.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall in Betong is over 30 metres high.
Chaloem Phrakiat Rama IX Waterfall is another notable tourist attraction in the sub-district due to its wonderful natural surroundings. It is located on Highway 410, Yala-Betong, at the 33rd kilometre. The waterfall is surrounded by an evergreen forest, with cool weather. The waterfall is surrounded by an evergreen forest, with cool weather.
We need a cold beer to chill at the waterfall before driving to Betong for lunch.
Chaloem Phra Kiat King Rama IX Waterfall is a stunning and easily
accessible waterfall via a slow 10-minute walk with a gentle
inclination—easy path for youngsters and the elderly, ideal for families However, because the road leading up to the waterfall is narrow, it is preferable to take a compact car.
The proximity to the skywalk provides for a convenient visit after sightseeing. Swimming is not recommended owing to the strong current, although guests can enjoy water activities downstream. The free access to this jungle waterfall provides a quiet experience in nature, yet caution is urged owing to minimal infrastructure improvements.
Day 3 (29-07-2025) Lunch at Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong and Home Sweet Home.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong provides a delightful dining experience with its intimate setting and carefully prepared food. The restaurant is notable for its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and innovative meals that accentuate Thai flavours.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is decorated with artwork of local culture.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is decorated with artwork of local culture.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is decorated with artwork of local culture.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is decorated with artwork of local culture.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is decorated with artwork of local culture.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is decorated with artwork of local culture.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is decorated with artwork of local culture.
Thai cuisine is nice at Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant.
Thai cuisine is nice at Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant.
Thai cuisine is nice at Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant.
Thai cuisine is nice at Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant.
Thai cuisine is nice at Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant.
Thai cuisine is nice at Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant in Betong is beautifully decorated with artwork that showcases the rich local culture, creating a warm and authentic dining atmosphere.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Cafe in Betong is beautifully decorated.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Cafe in Betong is beautifully decorated.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Cafe in Betong is beautifully decorated.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Cafe in Betong is beautifully decorated.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Cafe in Betong is beautifully decorated.
Whai Rhoy Lee Boutique Restaurant and Cafe in Betong is beautifully decorated with artwork that showcases the rich local culture, creating a warm and authentic dining atmosphere.
🚗 Ching Neng Bin & Family Road Adventure to Betong 2025
3D/2N Camping at Punapa Campsite | Sunrise & Gunung Silipat Hike
Day 1: Journey Begins
Our road trip started early from Malaysia, heading toward the southern Thai town of Betong, nestled in the Yala province. The drive was scenic, filled with winding roads, lush greenery, and refreshing pit stops. We arrived at Punapa Campsite, tucked away in the cool hills near the border, just in time to set up camp before sunset.
The campsite was beautifully laid out — spacious, surrounded by forest, and cool with fresh mountain air. As night fell, we gathered around a simple campfire, sharing stories under a sky full of stars.
Day 2: Chasing Sunrise at Gunung Silipat
We woke up at 3:30 AM, armed with headlamps and excitement. A 40-minute hike in the dark led us to the summit of Gunung Silipat (or Khao Krachom). The trail was misty, and the cool pre-dawn air was energising.
As the sun began to rise, a sea of clouds stretched beneath us — a surreal and magical sight. The panoramic view from the peak was worth every step: jagged hills poking through the clouds, the orange-pink hue of sunrise spilling across the sky, and total silence except for the wind.
We took our time enjoying the moment, capturing photos, and soaking in the natural beauty. After descending, we returned to the campsite for a hearty breakfast and some much-needed rest.
In the afternoon, we explored nearby attractions in Betong — including local eateries, hot springs, and the quirky Betong Mongkolit Tunnel — the longest road tunnel in Thailand.
Day 3: A Slow Farewell
After a relaxed morning at the campsite, we packed up and bid farewell to Gunung Campsite. On the way back, we took a detour through rubber plantations and scenic valleys, making our way to a 30-metre-high Chaloem Phra Kiat King Rama IX Waterfall.
This trip was more than just a getaway — it was quality family time, a chance to reconnect with nature, and a reminder of the simple joys of life: sunrise hikes, campfire chats, and the open road.
📌 Trip Highlights
-
Punapa Sunrise: A peaceful, golden-hued experience above the clouds.
-
Gunung Silipat Hike: Moderate difficulty with rich forest scenery and a rewarding summit.
-
Family Bonding: Campfire cooking, shared laughs, and unplugged moments together.
///